Disney Announces Landmark Theme Park on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, UAE – May 7, 2025 – In a historic move set to transform the Middle East’s entertainment landscape, The Walt Disney Company and Miral, Abu Dhabi’s leading destination developer, have officially announced the development of Disneyland Abu Dhabi on Yas Island.
This groundbreaking project will be the first-ever Disney theme park in the Middle East and the seventh Disney resort worldwide, joining destinations in California, Florida, Paris, Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Shanghai.
A Game-Changer for Middle East Tourism
Disneyland Abu Dhabi is poised to become a global entertainment hub, offering immersive attractions, themed accommodations, interactive storytelling, and innovative experiences. Located in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s entertainment district, the park will be developed by Miral and creatively led by Disney Imagineers.
According to Disney CEO Bob Iger, the project will be “authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati,” blending Disney’s iconic characters and narratives with UAE’s rich cultural heritage and architectural beauty.
What to Expect at Disneyland Abu Dhabi
The new Disney resort on Yas Island will offer:
- Cutting-edge rides and attractions featuring beloved Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars stories.
- Themed hotels and resorts designed for families and luxury travelers alike.
- Immersive dining and retail experiences integrated with local and international themes.
- Next-generation interactive storytelling technology, setting new standards for theme park design.
Chairman of Miral, H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, emphasized that this partnership is “a testament to Abu Dhabi’s commitment to visionary, world-class experiences.”
Strategic Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Yas Island is already home to major attractions like Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, and SeaWorld Yas Island. With Disneyland Abu Dhabi joining the mix, the island will become a top-tier global destination for family tourism.
Just 20 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi and close to Abu Dhabi International Airport, Yas Island is easily accessible for regional and international visitors.
Economic and Cultural Impact
The Disney resort is expected to:
- Attract millions of visitors annually from the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe.
- Create thousands of new jobs across tourism, hospitality, and construction.
- Support UAE’s economic diversification goals and strengthen its status as a cultural and entertainment capital.
Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, added, “This resort will be the most advanced and interactive in our portfolio.”
Opening Date and Development Timeline
While an official opening date for Disneyland Abu Dhabi has not yet been announced, construction is expected to begin soon, with further details to follow in the coming months. Visitors and Disney fans can expect regular updates from both Miral and The Walt Disney Company.
Conclusion
The arrival of Disneyland Abu Dhabi on Yas Island is a milestone for both Disney and the UAE. This world-class resort will not only redefine entertainment in the Middle East but also create unforgettable experiences for generations to come.
Stay tuned for updates on attractions, ticket availability, hotel bookings, and more.